A Tree Grows in Brooklyn American Classics Edition (HarperCollins American Classics)

Synopsis

Growing up in the Williamsburg neighbourhood of Brooklyn at the turn of the twentieth century, Francie Nolan learns early that resilience is essential. Raised in a struggling Irish American family, she finds strength in her imaginative, charismatic father, her practical and determined mother, and her own insatiable love of books and learning. Amid poverty, hardship, and loss, Francie discovers moments of beauty and hope that shape her journey into adulthood.

Heartbreaking, uplifting, and deeply compassionate, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is one of America's most beloved coming-of-age novels. Betty Smith's unforgettable portrait of immigrant life captures the enduring power of family, education, and perseverance, celebrating the quiet courage required to dream beyond one's circumstances. Rich in warmth, humour, and humanity, it remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate across generations.

About the Author

Betty Smith (1896–1972) was an American novelist and playwright whose work drew heavily on her experiences growing up in Brooklyn. First published in 1943, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn became an instant classic and remains her best-known work, celebrated for its vivid storytelling and enduring portrayal of hope in the face of adversity.

Publisher
Harper Perennial Modern Classics

Publication Date
January 27, 2026

Format
Paperback

Pages
528

Subjects
Classics · Literary Fiction · Coming-of-Age · American Literature

ISBN
9780063484184